3 best free agent relievers the NY Mets should sign ranked

2) Jose Leclerc

Jose Leclerc has been a stalwart in the Rangers' bullpen since his 2017 rookie season. After two strong seasons in 2022 and 2023, including being the Rangers' closer during their '23 World Series run. Although he stumbled a bit in 2024, there is a lot of evidence that could make him a rebound candidate in 2025.

Leclerc had a 4.32 ERA, which was a huge step back from back-to-back sub-3.00 ERA seasons. But his strikeout rate was above 30% for the first time since 2019 at 30.9%. His 11.1% walk rate was also about where it sat between 2022-2023. The veteran reliever was not home run prone either, posting a solid 0.95 home runs-per-9 ratio throughout 66.2 innings of work.

ERA estimators also pinned Leclerc as a solid pitcher. His 3.26 SIERA and 3.66 xFIP were both the best he's posted since his 2018 campaign. Despite a .314 batting average on balls in play, Leclerc was still above average at limiting hard contact. His 87.4 MPH exit velocity was in the 84th percentile of pitchers, while his 7.4% barrel percentage was in the top 56th percentile.

Stuff+ also pinned Leclerc's abilities at a high level at 110. Next season is Leclerc's age-31 campaign. If the Mets want a quality, right-handed set-up man, Leclerc is the guy. He also has experience working as a closing pitcher as well. He has a strong chance of rebounding and a solid resume of work that would make him what the Mets need in the back end of the pen.